Early Saturday morning, accounts surfaced of major blasts shaking the Iranian capital, amid statements from Israeli officials that it had carried out a preemptive military action.
Powerful Explosions and Smoke Reported in Central Tehran
According to eyewitness accounts, two powerful explosions were heard in the city on Saturday morning. Correspondingly, columns of dense smoke were observed rising over central and eastern districts of the Iranian capital.
“The nature of these blasts indicates that this is a strike involving missiles,” a media outlet reported, without immediately provide further details.
Context: Rising Tensions and Prior Developments
This event takes place against a background of severely escalated tensions in the region. Major developments preceding this attack involve:
- American Naval Deployment: A significant buildup of US naval forces in the region, featuring the movement of aircraft carriers.
- Nuclear Talks: Latest talks between the US and Iranian officials on Tehran's atomic program ended inconclusively, with suggestions of further talks scheduled.
- Public Statements: Prior to the strike, a senior US official had described Iran as “the leading state sponsor of terrorism” and issued warnings regarding its weapons development.
- Ultimatum: Allegedly, a time limit of 10 to 15 days had been given to Iran to resolve the atomic standoff or face severe consequences.
Iranian Response
In response to earlier allegations, Iranian authorities had charged the United States of spreading “big lies” about its missiles programme. They dismissed claims about missile development and protest deaths as baseless.
These developments is fast-moving, with additional reports expected as the situation develops.
